10 Staple Curly Hairstyles That Are Equally Easy and Chic
Compared to straight hair, styling wavy hair and curly hair can often feel like you’re playing a game on hard mode. It takes on a life of its own, refusing to stay in place and seemingly defying the laws of frizz physics when it comes to blowouts, brushing, and straightening. So while it can be tempting to keep your curly hair simple (it looks fab on its own, after all), there are also plenty of curly hairstyles that embrace the beauty, character, and natural texture of curly hair.
To get you started, we’ve compiled the best curly hairstyles ideas (and a few tutorials) to satisfy every scenario—like gym braids that hold up to a sweat sesh, laidback vacation twists, date night updos, or simple half-up styles to shake up your curly hair routine. So scroll and save for later.
1. Side-Part Twists
Whether you’re actually on vacation or channeling the tropics in the dead of winter, these side twists will bring the beachy air-dry vibes you want. Opt for a deep side part to build asymmetrical volume on one side, then section and twist the hair from the part line to the ear—using elastics or small clips to secure the twists into place. Top off the look with a few spritzes of sea salt spray to play up your natural hair texture.
2. Glossy Crop
Cropped curly haircuts can make tight coils and ringlets sing. The key to definition in short curly hair is all about the styling products. After washing, add a leave-in conditioner (we love MARC ANTHONY Strictly Curls® Curl Envy Leave-In Conditioner) to lock in moisture and hydrating curl gel for definition before using a brush (or your fingers) to separate and enhance the curl pattern. Then, use the cool setting and diffuser attachment on your blow-dryer to dry and set everything into place. Finish with an oil mist for major glossiness—like NATURELAB. TOKYO Perfect Shine Oil Mist.
3. Double Braided Buns
Headed to the gym? Try this braid-and-bun combo to keep your curly hair up and out of the way. Part and divide your hair, then French braid until you reach just above the nape of your neck. Secure each braid in place with a hair tie, then twist and wrap the remaining lengths into a bun that conceals the hair tie. You can either pin the ends into place or tuck them into the hair tie.
4. Romantic Updo
An updo is equally easy and gorgeous for curly hair types. Plus, it’ll look like you spent hours getting it perfect. Separate a few face-framing pieces and gather hair back and up toward the crown of your head—pulling a few more pieces out of the gathered hair. Twist and secure into a loose bun with plenty of ends facing upwards to cascade over the bun. You can use a curling iron to define the loose curls, then add a hair accessory to amp up the romance.
5. Slicked-Back Low Ponytail
The contrast of sleek roots and voluminous ponytail make this curly hairstyle a chic everyday option when you need to get out the door quickly. Starting at the front roots, brush a curl cream into your hair (try CAKE BEAUTY The Curl Friend Defining Curl Cream to nourish and condition) and pull into a tight, low ponytail. Brush and fluff up the ponytail to create tons of volume—and don’t be afraid to let it get a little frizzy.
6. Casual Bandana
We love an accessory moment—especially if it also helps conceal greasy hair. Fold a square bandana or vintage scarf in half and (with the pointy side facing away from you) place the scarf at the top of your head and tie under your curls. Let bangs or front-facing layers peek out in front, and use a few bobby pins to keep the scarf in place. Pro tip: Use a silk scarf to help maintain your hair’s moisture and prevent frizz.
7. Curly Bangs & Bows
Show off your curly bangs with this tied-up-with-a-bow ponytail that makes cottagecore dreams come true. Using a single piece of ribbon, gather and tie your hair into a half-up pony. Then, gather the rest of the hair below to combine with your top ponytail—wrapping the ends of the ribbon underneath both sections and back up to the top of your upper ponytail. Finish by tying the ribbon ends into a sweet bow.
8. Double Bubble Braids
Pigtail braids are an easy go-to for long curly hair, so these bubble braids can help add a fresh take to your favorite style. You can start with a French braid on each side, then tie the mid-lengths into a ponytail at the nape of the neck. To create the bubble effect, tie hair elastics around the ponytail (leaving a two-inch gap between each hair tie) until you reach the ends. Gently pull apart each section to create a puffed-up “bubbles” along the lengths of your hair.
9. Messy Top Knot
For curly hair, a trusty top knot can look just as at home on a sweatpants grocery run as it does on a red carpet. To get this effortless hair look, gather your hair way up top and twist into a voluminous messy bun—you may need a few tries to get that perfectly “undone” messy look. Let baby hairs, bangs, and wispy front pieces fall free.
10. Half-Up Ponytail With Micro Braids
There’s more to this half-up, half-down pony than meets the eye with the addition of a few micro braids—and it’s great for shoulder-length hair. Hair is separated into two horizontal sections, with the top section brushed down and secured into a ponytail. Take a few tiny pieces in your lower section to create tightly braided strands. Since you want this to look organic, skip the elastics and secure the end of the braids by twisting and adding a bit of hairspray.
The right hair products can make all the difference with curly hair—we’ll help with the product guesswork. Take our Beauty Quiz now to get started with your own IPSY beauty subscription. Already an IPSY member? Refer your friends to earn points, which you can use toward products. Either way, don’t forget to check us out on Instagram and TikTok @IPSY.
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